Six Jackets Prepare for NCAA East Preliminary

May 25, 2016

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Georgia Tech track & field squad will send six representatives to the NCAA East Preliminary, which will take place Thursday through Saturday. The top 12 finishers in each event will advance to the NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Eugene, Ore.

Bria Matthews, a freshman jumper from Morrow, Ga., recently won the triple jump at the ACC Outdoor Championships, and her mark of 13.73m (45-0.5) set a school record and met the “A” standard for U.S. Olympic Trials. She also set the school record in the long jump with a leap of 6.47 (21-2.75), and she will be competing in both events this weekend.

Donjhae Jones, who recorded a mark of 6.17m (20-3) at the Florida Relays, will also be competing for the Jackets in the women’s long jump event.

“We have two outstanding women and great competitors representing our team in Jacksonville,” head women’s coach Alan Drosky said. “Bria and Donjhae have had great seasons, and we’re excited to watch them compete this weekend and try to advance to the finals in Eugene.”

“We’re looking forward to competing in the NCAA First Round meet,” head men’s coach Grover Hinsdale said. “I am very proud of Spencer, Nathan, Andres, and William for the work and effort they put in to get here. Nikita Kirillov qualified in the PV as well, but an ankle injury will prevent him from competing. This is always a great meet and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”